Will Smith Suffers Hairline Hand Fracture, Playoff Availability Uncertain for Dodgers

Kansas City Royals catcher Will Smith has sustained a hairline fracture in his right hand, confirmed by manager Dave Roberts on September 20, 2025, which will sideline him for the remainder of the regular season. While the team is "hopeful" for his return, his availability for the start of the playoffs, likely September 30, remains "up in the air." The three-time All-Star initially injured his throwing hand on September 3 in Pittsburgh from a foul ball. After returning briefly on September 9 and doubling, he was scratched the next day due to swelling and later placed on the injured list. Initial scans were clean, but a subsequent MRI revealed the small fracture. Smith, who was batting .296 with 17 home runs and 61 RBIs, is crucial to the lineup, though the team has managed 8-6 in his absence. The team is optimistic for a quick recovery, but the timeline is uncertain.